Fall Protection Solutions for A&S / MBCI Standing Seam Roofs

Who Is A&S Building Systems?

A&S Building Systems has been a staple in the metal building industry since its inception. Following its acquisition by MBCI—a part of Cornerstone Building Brands—it continues to offer a robust lineup of metal roofing systems for which MBCI is renowned. Whether you're tackling a small commercial project or industrial build, A&S, backed by MBCI, provides high-quality standing seam roof panels that meet the highest performance and durability standards.

MBCI, the parent company, brings decades of expertise as one of North America's top metal roof and wall system manufacturers. Since 1976, MBCI has been delivering exceptional customer service through a diverse portfolio of products, with manufacturing facilities and sales offices strategically located across the U.S. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, MBCI has earned a reputation for producing metal roofing components that combine strength, longevity, and aesthetic appeal.

But MBCI's reach extends even further. As part of Cornerstone Building Brands—the largest manufacturer of exterior building products in North America—A&S offers an unparalleled selection of roofing and siding solutions. A&S's standing seam roofing systems and MBCI's nationwide network provide fast, efficient service for your project, regardless of location. With an emphasis on long-term relationships and sustainability, A&S, through MBCI, is more than just a roofing provider—it's a trusted partner in building success.

Why Non-Penetrating Fall Protection Anchors Are Critical for Standing Seam Roofs

When working on standing seam metal roofs, one of the first things I tell anyone new to the game is that your fall protection equipment better be up to the task—which means non-penetrating anchors. You wouldn't drill a hole in your boat to install an anchor, so why puncture your metal roof for fall protection? Design standing seam panels to be weathertight, durable, and long-lasting; avoid compromising their integrity with screw holes or fasteners that could cause leaks or rust.

Non-penetrating fall protection anchors, like the Standing Seam Roof Anchor (SSRA1), clamp securely to the seam without drilling into the metal. This ability preserves the roofing system's integrity and eliminates future headaches like water damage or corrosion around the penetration points. It's like putting on a seatbelt—you're not just following a rule but safeguarding your crew and investment. The correct anchor system keeps workers safe and protects the structure, ensuring you don't end up dealing with expensive repairs down the road.

On top of that, using non-penetrating anchors ensures a quick and easy setup—no need to hunt down structural points or deal with complicated installations. And if you're working on multiple roof areas, these anchors can be repositioned, giving you flexibility and efficiency on-site. Trust me, once you've worked with a system that preserves the roof's integrity while keeping your team secure, you'll wonder why anyone would use anything else!

The following sections will explore the specifics of A&S Building Systems' standing seam panel profiles. We'll provide detailed research on each panel type and highlight the most compatible fall protection solutions, ensuring you can make informed decisions for your project. Whether you're working with standard or complex panel designs, we'll guide you through the best safety anchors to use without compromising the roof's performance or longevity. Stay tuned for insights that will keep your crew and roof safe!

Craftsman™ Series – High Batten Metal Roofing

The Craftsman™ Series: High Batten Metal Roofing system stands out for its innovative engineering, designed for versatility and ease of installation. You'll appreciate how this system separates the pan and batten components. This feature makes installation a breeze, even in tricky roof configurations, ensuring smooth, professional results every time.

Designed as a water-shedding system, this panel excels in areas where rainwater management is critical, making it a top choice for roofs and mansards with a minimum slope of 3:12. One of its most innovative aspects is how it eliminates the need for traditional flashings when transitioning between roof slopes, fascia, and soffit. Instead, the Craftsman™ Series uses a seamless, single pan and batten system that delivers aesthetic beauty and structural reliability.

Available in two standard rib spacings—12" and 16 1/2"—with 2" high seams, this panel comes in a variety of thicknesses (22, 24, and 26 gauge) to suit the specific demands of your project. Its flexible design allows various applications, ensuring the right fit for residential and commercial builds. The batten is secured to the panel using a discrete clip system, providing the right amount of flexibility for thermal expansion and contraction, a critical consideration for metal roofing systems.

Fall Protection for Craftsman™ Series – High Batten Metal Roofing

Here's where things get interesting: standard seam-mounted fall protection solutions won't work on the Craftsman™ Series because of the batten-style seam. You'll need a different approach if you're used to relying on SSRA1 Seam Anchors, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapters, or SSRA3 Anchor Plates.

Enter the Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor. This handy device doesn't require clamping onto the seam, making it an ideal solution for the Craftsman™ Series without risking damage to the batten or compromising the roof's integrity. The Ridge Pro allows workers to safely navigate 6/12 to 12/12 slopes while maintaining 100% tie-off, ensuring safety remains the top priority even on more challenging high-batten systems.

What makes the Ridge Pro so effective is its design, specifically engineered to work on various roof types, including those where traditional anchors just won't cut it. By bypassing the need for seam attachments, it's the perfect solution for the Craftsman™ Series, preserving the roof's watertight integrity while keeping your crew secured safely. Whether working on a new build or performing maintenance, the Ridge Pro equips you with the proper fall protection.

Craftsman™ Series – Small Batten Metal Roofing

The Craftsman™ Series—Small Batten Metal Roofing system combines aesthetics with practical functionality. Like its high-batten sibling, this panel system separates the pan and batten, making installation a breeze—particularly in tricky areas like hips, valleys, and slope transitions. Suppose you've ever wrestled with roofing in these challenging areas. In that case, you'll quickly appreciate how MBCI's design takes the stress out of installation.

More than easy to install, the Craftsman™ Series—Small Batten is a water-shedding system perfect for roofs and mansards with a minimum slope of 3:12. Its efficiency lies in eliminating the need for complex flashings at transitions between the roof, fascia, and soffit. This design enhances the visual appeal with its clean, uninterrupted lines. It simplifies the entire roofing process, reducing installation time and potential water intrusion points.

Available for field curving, the Craftsman™ Series – Small Batten offers convenience to projects requiring curved sections. Its concealed clip system locks the batten firmly onto the panel while allowing for natural expansion and contraction, ensuring long-term durability. Whether working on a residential home or a more complex commercial project, this system provides the flexibility and performance needed for a successful installation.

Fall Protection for Craftsman™ Series – Small Batten Metal Roofing

Regarding safety on the Craftsman™ Series – Small Batten Metal Roofing, the batten-style seam presents a challenge for traditional fall protection systems. Standard products like the SSRA1 Seam Anchors, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jack Adapters, and SSRA3 Anchor Plates aren't compatible with this panel design. However, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor offers an ideal solution for steep roofs with pitches between 6/12 and 12/12.

For curved panels, it is best to have an inspection performed by a trained safety professional before determining the best fall protection strategy.

The Ridge Pro is specifically engineered for steep roof applications, allowing workers to stay securely tied off without clamping onto the seams. This design is perfect for the Craftsman™ Series, as it preserves the panel's integrity while ensuring maximum safety. The Ridge Pro ensures 100% tie-off on sloped roofs, making it the best option for steep batten-style systems like this one.

Using the Ridge Pro, you can protect your workers and the roof. The anchor avoids the pitfalls of penetrating or damaging the batten seam while delivering reliable fall protection for roofs with steep pitches. Whether tackling a fresh install or performing maintenance, the Ridge Pro is your go-to solution for keeping the crew safe and the roof watertight.

Slimline® Metal Roofing

The Slimline® Metal Roofing panel system combines style and functionality in a modern, sleek design for residential projects. With a minimum slope requirement of 3:12, Slimline® panels are the perfect choice for homes or structures seeking a refined, contemporary aesthetic.

These panels are crafted with 16" rib spacing and 26—and 29-gauge steel options, delivering visual appeal and durable performance. Slimline® panels are ideal for projects looking to marry modern design with practical roofing solutions. Whether you're aiming to boost curb appeal or add a clean, sophisticated touch to a building, the Slimline® system offers a lightweight and easy-to-install solution that meets the demands of today's roofing projects.

Fall Protection for Slimline® Metal Roofing

While the Slimline® Metal Roofing system excels in aesthetics and performance, its 26 and 29-gauge steel design presents limitations regarding compatible fall protection solutions. The SSRA1 Seam Anchors, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks, and SSRA3 Anchor Plates, typically used with standing seam roofs, are not compatible with Slimline® panels due to the thinner gauge of the material. These panels are not thick enough to securely support traditional seam-mounted anchors.

However, for projects with roofs pitched between 6/12 and 12/12, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor is the optimal solution for fall protection. Unlike seam-mounted products, the Ridge Pro doesn't rely on clamping onto the seams. Instead, it provides a secure tie-off point without compromising the structural integrity of the Slimline® panels. The design of the Ridge Pro caters to steep roof applications. It ensures workers maintain 100% tie-off, providing crucial safety on sloped roofs.

The Ridge Pro is the preferred fall protection system for Slimline® Metal Roofing. It delivers reliable safety while preserving the roof's aesthetic and performance. Using the Ridge Pro, you can confidently protect workers on steep roofs without worrying about damaging the panels or compromising the roof's weathertightness.

BattenLok® HS Metal Roofing

The BattenLok® HS roof system is a top choice in field-seamed standing seam roofing, offering unmatched durability and adaptability. With its impressive 2" tall vertical seam and 12 and 16 inches widths, this system meets the needs of various projects, whether you're working on a commercial, industrial, or architectural build.

One of the standout features of the BattenLok® HS system is its ability to be installed on a minimum roof pitch of ½:12, making it a versatile option for low-slope roofs. Crafted in 22 and 24-gauge steel, BattenLok® HS panels provide the durability required for long-term performance, even in challenging environments. Whether mounted on purlins or bar joists, the seamless transition from roof to fascia allows for clean lines and structural integrity.

Adding to its design flexibility, BattenLok® HS can also be field-curved, allowing architects and designers to incorporate unique, dynamic shapes into their projects. This system draws inspiration from Steelox's LRX and PRX roof panels, building on a legacy of excellence in metal roofing systems that combine performance and aesthetic appeal.

Fall Protection for BattenLok® HS Metal Roofing

Regarding fall protection, the BattenLok® HS system is compatible with some of the best safety equipment available. Because this system uses 22 and 24-gauge steel, it's fully compatible with the SSRA1 Seam Clamps, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks, and SSRA3 Anchor Plates. These products work together to provide a comprehensive fall protection solution that ensures the safety of workers without compromising the roof's structural integrity.

The SSRA1 Seam Clamps are the foundation of this system, providing a secure and non-penetrating attachment to the BattenLok® seams. These clamps preserve the roof's watertight integrity while offering solid anchor points for workers. For additional versatility, the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks attach to the SSRA1 anchors, creating platforms for material staging or tool placement, which is essential for larger projects where efficiency is critical.

If you need horizontal lifelines, the SSRA3 Anchor Plates come into play. When used with the SSRA1 Seam Clamps, these plates allow you to install temporary horizontal lifelines, offering safe mobility for workers across the roof. This setup is ideal for projects requiring multiple workers to move safely and efficiently around the roof, whether during installation or ongoing maintenance.

The Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor effectively supports steep slopes, particularly on roofs with pitches ranging from 6/12 to 12/12. This device is perfect for ensuring worker safety on steep pitches without requiring clamping onto the seams, adding an extra layer of versatility to the BattenLok® HS system.

With these fall protection solutions, the BattenLok® HS system provides the ultimate combination of durability, design flexibility, and worker safety, ensuring that your roofing project and crew are protected from start to finish.

Double-Lok™ Metal Roofing

Presenting the Double-Lok™ roof panel, a versatile solution catering to industrial, commercial, and architectural projects with exceptional proficiency, especially in Retrofit applications. Renowned for its ability to enhance energy efficiency and extend the lifespan of structures, the Double-Lok™ panel is a testament to MBCI's commitment to innovation and performance.

Available in widths of 18 inches and 24 inches, the Double-Lok™ panel features a trapezoidal leg standing seam roof system, mechanically field-seamed to ensure durability and reliability. With a total rib height of 3 inches and a minimum slope requirement of ¼:12, this panel offers unparalleled versatility to meet diverse project needs.

Crafted with precision, the Double-Lok™ panel is available in 22 and 24-gauge thickness options, ensuring resilience without compromising design flexibility. Whether it's industrial complexes, commercial buildings, or architectural masterpieces, the Double-Lok™ panel stands as a symbol of excellence in roofing solutions.

Fall Protection For Double-Lok™ Metal Roofing

Moreover, the Double-Lok™ panel is compatible with a range of fall protection products, including the SSRA1 Seam Clamps, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks, SSRA3 Anchor Plates for horizontal lifelines, and the RidgePro Steep Assist Anchor. This compatibility ensures seamless integration with various safety solutions, providing peace of mind for builders and occupants alike.

LokSeam® Metal Roofing

Introducing the LokSeam® snap-together standing seam roof panels, an epitome of versatility and strength tailored for projects with a minimum slope of 3:12. With a vertical rib standing at 1-3/4″ in height, LokSeam® panels offer both durability and aesthetic appeal.

Available in 12-inch, 16-inch, and 18-inch widths, LokSeam® panels provide unmatched installation flexibility, catering to diverse project requirements. Depending on the seam spacing of the panel, LokSeam® panels are offered in various thicknesses, including 22, 24, and 26 gauge, ensuring resilience and longevity.

MBCI recommends installation over open framing or a solid substructure, with a seamless transition from roof to fascia utilizing a rib cover. Notably, LokSeam® panels excel without necessitating a solid substructure for support, further enhancing their adaptability and ease of installation.

Fall Protection For LokSeam® Metal Roofing

Compatible with a range of fall protection products, including the SSRA1 Seam Clamps, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks, SSRA3 Anchor Plates for horizontal lifelines, and the RidgePro Steep Assist Anchor, LokSeam® panels ensure seamless integration with various safety solutions. This compatibility underscores LokSeam®'s commitment to safety and performance, offering peace of mind for builders and occupants alike.

SuperLok® Metal Roofing

Introducing the SuperLok® roof system, a pinnacle of strength and resilience designed to withstand the harshest weather conditions. Featuring a slender 2-inch tall rib aligned vertically, SuperLok® offers exceptional resistance against uplift forces, ensuring unparalleled durability.

Available in widths of 12 inches and 16 inches, SuperLok® is ready to take on the most demanding weather challenges, boasting a minimum slope requirement of ½:12. Its installation versatility allows for mounting directly over purlins or bar joists, eliminating the need for a solid substructure for support and streamlining the installation process.

Crafted with precision, SuperLok® panels are available in 22, 24, and 26-gauge thickness options. They offer durability without compromising on design flexibility. Whether facing high winds or heavy snow loads, SuperLok® panels are prepared to safeguard your structure against the elements.

Fall Protection For SuperLok® Metal Roofing

Compatible with a range of fall protection products, including the SSRA1 Seam Clamps, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks, SSRA3 Anchor Plates for horizontal lifelines, and the RidgePro Steep Assist Anchor, SuperLok® ensures seamless integration with various safety solutions. This compatibility underscores SuperLok®'s commitment to safety and performance, providing peace of mind for builders and occupants alike.

Ultra-Dek® Metal Roofing

Introducing Ultra-Dek®, a cutting-edge snap-together roof system that sets the standard for durability and performance. Featuring a trapezoidal leg standing seam design, Ultra-Dek® has undergone rigorous Air Leakage and Water Penetration testing, earning approvals that attest to its superior quality.

Available in widths of 18 inches and 24 inches, with a total seam height of 3 inches, Ultra-Dek® offers versatility to meet diverse construction needs. This panel system ensures durability without compromise, with options in 22- and 24-gauge thicknesses.

With a minimum slope requirement of ¼:12, Ultra-Dek® proves optimal for various applications, including industrial, commercial, and architectural projects. Its versatility extends across various construction types, making it the ideal choice for projects with varying requirements.

Similar in dimensions to MBCI's Double-Lok panel, Ultra-Dek® distinguishes itself with its unique upper rib shape where the panels are seamed together. This distinction showcases Ultra-Dek®'s commitment to innovation and excellence in design.

Fall Protection For Ultra-Dek® Metal Roofing

Compatible with a range of fall protection products, including the SSRA1 Seam Clamps, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks, SSRA3 Anchor Plates for horizontal lifelines, and the RidgePro Steep Assist Anchor, Ultra-Dek® ensures seamless integration with various safety solutions. This compatibility underscores Ultra-Dek®'s dedication to safety and reliability, providing peace of mind for builders and occupants alike.

CFR Metal Roofing Panels

Metl-Span's CFR panel is an innovative insulated metal roof standing seam system that excels in form and function. As an all-in-one composite insulated roof panel, the CFR system combines a durable exterior and interior with a highly efficient foam core. It is a premier choice for projects where energy efficiency and temperature control are essential. The exterior profile features 1/8″ deep embossed planks. At the same time, the panel can be installed on roof slopes as low as 1/2″:12″, offering incredible versatility across a range of applications.

One of the standout features of the CFR panel is the factory-cut panel notching and swaged ends, which reduce the need for extra labor on-site. Including factory-installed backer plates at the end, laps eliminate the need for pre-drilling for special fasteners, streamline installation, and improve efficiency. This system's standing seam exterior face delivers unmatched weathertight performance, making it an exceptional roofing solution for various building types.

The CFR panels offer coverage widths of 36″ and 42″ and boast impressive thermal properties. The R-value ranges from 17.5 (for a 2″ thick panel) to 52.5 (for a 6″ thick panel), ensuring superior insulation. These panels also come with G-90 galvanized or AZ-50 aluminum-zinc coated steel in 24—and 22-gauge options for the exterior face, and the Mesa profile between the seams provides strength and a clean aesthetic.

With lengths ranging from 9′-6″ to 53′-0″ and panel thicknesses from 2″ to 6″, the CFR panels are suitable for a wide range of applications, including coolers, freezers, food processing, and dry goods warehouses, where temperature control is critical. Whether you're working on an industrial or commercial project, these panels offer both durability and functionality, ensuring the longevity of your building.

Fall Protection for CFR Metal Roofing Panels

The Metl-Span CFR panel system, with its robust 24 and 22-gauge exterior, is compatible with some of the industry's most trusted fall protection solutions. The SSRA1 Seam Clamps are fully compatible with the standing seam design of the CFR panels, offering a secure, non-penetrating anchor point. These seam clamps preserve the integrity of the panels, ensuring that your roofing system remains watertight while providing a safe tie-off point for workers during installation or maintenance.

To further enhance the SSRA1's functionality, the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks can be added to the system. These adjustable roof jacks attach seamlessly to the SSRA1 anchors, creating versatile platforms for staging materials or securing equipment on the roof. This setup allows workers to move safely and efficiently across the roof without risking damage to the panels or compromising their safety.

However, due to the CFR panels' wide seam design, the SSRA3 Anchor Plates for horizontal lifelines are not compatible with this system. The seam width prevents the proper attachment of the SSRA3 plates, typically used to establish temporary horizontal lifelines across other standing seam roof systems.

For roofs with steeper pitches, particularly those between 6/12 and 12/12, the Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor is the ideal solution. This fall protection device allows workers to tie off safely on steeper roofs without relying on seam-clamping mechanisms. The Ridge Pro ensures maximum safety for workers on challenging roof angles while maintaining the overall integrity of the CFR roof system.

These fall protection solutions provide a comprehensive approach to worker safety on CFR metal roofing projects. Whether installing panels for a commercial facility or maintaining a temperature-controlled warehouse, you can trust the SSRA1 and SSRA2 systems, along with the Ridge Pro, to deliver safety and performance, ensuring that your crew and your roof stay protected.

Contact Us For More Information

For further details on roofing solutions and fall protection systems, contact us at 863-703-4522 or www.StandingSeamRoofAnchor.com. Let's work together to make your roofing projects safe, beautiful, and built to last. For more safety tips, check out OSHA's 48-page fall protection manual. Once you have determined the most suitable anchors for your roof system, download our free Anchor Inspection Form.

Safety Tips For Standing Seam Roofs

Equip Workers with High-Quality Safety Gear

First things first—don't skimp on fall protection gear. I always tell crews that wearing a top-notch full-body harness is like investing in really good brakes for your car; you may not always think about them, but you'll be thankful when you need them. Full-body harnesses, shock-absorbing lanyards, and OSHA-approved fall arrest systems keep workers safe on metal roofs. Equip your team with comfortable, durable gear; trust me, they'll wear it instead of "forgetting" it in the truck. Comfort encourages compliance, and compliance saves lives.

Ensure Stable Access Points

Ladders and scaffolding can be your best friend—or your worst enemy. Stable access points are key. Ensure ladders are set up on solid, level ground and follow the 4-to-1 rule—4 feet up for every foot out. This simple trick drastically reduces ladder slips and keeps everyone safe on their way to the roof.

Use Specialized Anchor Systems for Standing Seam Roofs

Standing seam roofs and punctures don't mix—like oil and water. If you're working on standing seam metal panels, use clamp-on anchors that don't require screws or nails. Trust me, the last thing you want is to deal with roof leaks when a proper anchor could've avoided the whole mess. Hunting for roof clips under the panels feels like playing hide-and-seek with the roof—not fun and unsafe!

Encourage the Use of Trauma Straps

Here's a pro tip: trauma straps. I once had a buddy who hung in his harness a little too long and nearly passed out from suspension trauma before we could rescue him. Trauma straps allow workers to relieve pressure and restore circulation while they wait for help. Ensure your team knows how to use them and insist they're part of every harness on-site.

Consult Experts for Curved Metal Panels

Curved metal roofs are a whole different ball game. Don't make the rookie mistake of trying to secure a seam anchor onto a curved panel. The curvature can mess with the attachment, making it unsafe. It's best to consult a certified fall protection expert for a customized plan. There's no shame in calling for backup here; it keeps the crew safe and avoids damage to the roof.

Develop OSHA-Compliant Safety Plans

Before starting any project, have an OSHA-approved safety plan locked and loaded. Having a detailed fall protection plan that includes emergency rescue procedures is critical. It's like packing a spare tire—you hope you never need it, but you'll be glad it's there when things go sideways. A solid rescue plan ensures that help is there fast if the worst happens.

Ensure Proper Footwear for Stability

Metal roofs can become slippery when wet or icy, so equip your team with non-slip boots. I once saw a guy lose his footing because he wore his trusty old sneakers to the job site—a bad idea. Good boots make all the difference regarding stability, especially on sloped or standing seam roofs. Plus, they're way more comfortable for those long workdays.

Promote a Culture of Safety

You can have all the safety gear in the world, but without a solid safety culture, it's like putting a bandage on a broken arm—it won't cut it. Regular safety meetings, toolbox talks, and encouraging your crew to speak up about hazards keep everyone on the same page. When everyone focuses on safety, they experience fewer accidents and complete the job more quickly. Additionally, nothing compares to the reassurance of knowing your crew looks out for one another.

Install Permanent Roof Anchor Systems

Permanent roof anchor systems are a no-brainer if your building sees regular rooftop maintenance. These fixed anchors save time and hassle by providing a ready-to-go tie-off point for maintenance workers. Commercial properties significantly benefit from this setup. Not only do permanent anchors boost safety, but they also make future roof work quicker and more efficient—two things every crew loves!

Set Up Protective Barriers for Work Zones

Finally, setting up guardrails or warning lines is crucial when working on a large roof (especially a low-slope one). Think of these barriers like the bumpers in bowling—giving you extra protection from straying too close to the edge. Defined work zones establish where people should and shouldn't be, keeping everyone focused and safe, even when multiple crews are on-site.

With these safety measures in mind, you can confidently tackle any metal roofing project while protecting your workers and the roof system. Safe work is efficient work, and that's a win-win in this industry. By implementing these enhanced fall protection strategies, roofing contractors and workers can ensure a safer working environment on metal roofs while adhering to OSHA guidelines and using the latest fall protection technology.

Disclaimer

The views, recommendations, and information presented in this blog are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or positions of the featured panel manufacturer, its brands, subsidiaries, or parent companies. Customers are strongly encouraged to reach out directly to the roof panel manufacturer for inquiries regarding fall protection compatibility with their products and to address any potential warranty issues that may arise following the installation of our products.